If the NHL hiatus ends up going on long term, I would be fine with it if they brought up AHL players to play in the NHL's place. That is, if the AHL isn't affiliated with the NHL's same collective bargaining agreement, and I assume they're not. I know the idea of bringing in replacement players has been floating around, but why not the AHL players? If it turns out the no agreement is reached, then cancel the AHL season, and each NHL team can bring up their AHL farm team to play in their place.

From the executive side of the things, this would save the NHL tons of salary. I mean, you'd have "star" players making approx 500K a year yet playing in the NHL. And this would benefit AHL players as well, as it gives them a chance to shine and prove their worth. And we won't have to worry about the lack of star power on our team, since every other team will be equalized out.

Would you be okay with this as an alternative? It's better than nothing - and I'm surprised this hasn't been floating around. Thoughts?

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